Soft, pillowy, and melt-in-your-mouth sweet, Easy Divinity is a classic American treat that feels like a little bite of heaven. With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this recipe delivers a cloud-like confection that’s light as air yet rich with the nostalgic flavors of vanilla and sugar. Perfect for gifting or indulging, each piece is a delicate balance of sweetness and smooth, creamy texture that will leave you reaching for more.
This no-fuss recipe combines simple ingredients into a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. The chewy yet tender texture pairs beautifully with a hint of nuttiness or chocolate drizzle, making it a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned candy maker or a beginner, Easy Divinity promises a rewarding experience and a dessert that’s sure to impress.
What You’ll Need for Easy Divinity
- 2⅔ cups sugar (granulated, for the candy base)
- ⅔ cup corn syrup (light corn syrup works best)
- ½ cup water (to dissolve the sugar)
- 2 egg whites (room temperature, for stiff peaks)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla for best flavor)
- ⅔ cup chopped pecans (optional, or substitute with walnuts or omit for nut-free)
- Non-stick cooking spray (for shaping the divinity)
How to Make Easy Divinity
- Prepare your workspace: Line a cookie sheet with waxed paper or parchment paper. Set aside.
- Cook the sugar mixture: In a 2-quart saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves. Attach a candy thermometer and heat the mixture to 260°F (hard ball stage).
- Beat the egg whites: While the sugar mixture heats, beat the egg whites in a stand mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine the mixtures: Once the sugar mixture reaches 260°F, slowly pour it into the beaten egg whites while the mixer is running on high speed. Continue beating for about 8 minutes, or until the mixture loses its gloss and holds its shape.
- Add flavor and nuts: Gently fold in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans (if using) until evenly distributed.
- Shape the divinity: Lightly spray two spoons with non-stick cooking spray. Use the spoons to drop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto the prepared cookie sheet. Work quickly, as the divinity sets fast.
- Let it set: Allow the divinity to set at room temperature for about 1 hour, or until firm.
- Store: Transfer the divinity to an airtight container. Enjoy within 1-2 weeks for best freshness.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions for Divinity
Divinity is a delightful treat on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. For a festive touch, serve it alongside other holiday candies like fudge or peppermint bark. You can also crumble it over vanilla ice cream for a sweet and nutty topping!
Storage Tips: Keeping Your Divinity Fresh
Store your divinity in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. To prevent sticking, layer the pieces between sheets of waxed paper. Avoid refrigerating, as humidity can cause the candy to become sticky and lose its light, fluffy texture.
Time-Saving Tricks for Candy-Making Success
To streamline the process, measure all your ingredients before starting and have your equipment ready. Use a stand mixer for the egg whites to free up your hands while monitoring the sugar syrup. If you’re short on time, skip the nuts or use pre-chopped pecans for a quicker assembly.
Recipe Variations: Customize Your Divinity
Experiment with different flavors by swapping vanilla for almond or peppermint extract. For a festive twist, add a few drops of food coloring and sprinkle with edible glitter. If nuts aren’t your thing, try folding in mini chocolate chips or crushed candy canes for a fun variation.
Essential Equipment for Candy Perfection
A candy thermometer is a must for this recipe to ensure the sugar syrup reaches the precise 260°F. A stand mixer makes beating the egg whites much easier, but a hand mixer will work too. Don’t forget to have non-stick cooking spray and parchment paper on hand for easy shaping and cleanup!
Easy Divinity
Ingredients
- 2⅔ cups sugar
- ⅔ cup corn syrup
- ½ cup water
- 2 egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- ⅔ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Line a cookie sheet with waxed paper or parchment paper.
- In a 2 quart saucepan, heat the sugar, corn syrup, and water over low heat until sugar is dissolved. Stir constantly. You’ll want to heat this mixture to 260 F on a candy thermometer.
- Before the candy reaches 260, start beating the egg whites in a stand mixer on high speed until stiff peaks begin to form.
- When the sugar mixture reaches 260 F, slowly pour it into the beaten egg whites. Beat the mixture on high speed.
- Beat until the mixture is no longer glossy and holds it’s shape. This could take about 8 minutes.
- Fold in vanilla and nuts.
- Spray 2 spoons with non stick cooking spray. Using these spoons drop by tablespoonfuls onto the lined cookie sheets.
- Work quickly as the divinity sets up fast.
- Let set for about 1 hour.
- Store in an airtight container.